Garcinia (Garcinia cambogia) is an evergreen tree that contains many species. The most common species is Garcinia cambogia which is used for detoxification of the liver & weight loss. It is commonly found in India also known as Malabar nut or Velayati Imali or Vrikshamala. The fruits are used for medicinal preparations that appear like small pumpkins. The Garcinia fruits are green to pale yellow in color. The tree of Garcinia is also named as gummi-gutta. Its fruit contains phytochemical content like hydroxy citric& other compounds such as kaempferol, luteolin, & polyphenols. Hydroxy citric acid is the major constituent in it that helps to maintain metabolism & reduce weight.
As the fruit of this tree is rich in vitamin C, it reduces gastric problems & builds natural immunity. This fruit is sour in taste & helps to maintain the metabolism in an individual. It suppresses the appetite & control weight naturally. In ancient times the fruit of this tree is used for its exotic flavor. This herb is also used for treating constipation, high lipid levels, piles, irregular menstruation, cancer, etc. In India, this tree is mostly found in Kerala, Karnataka, & Southeast Asia’s coastal regions.
What are the different synonyms of the herb Garcinia?
Garcinia cambogia, Malabar tamarind, Kudampuli, Brindle berry, Samagnicha, Vrikshamala.
What is the source of the herb Garcinia and which part is useful?
The main source of herb Garcinia is plant-based and its fruit and fruit rind is used for its culinary and medicinal values.
VARIOUS HEALTH BENEFITS OF HERB GARCINIA:
What are the health benefits of Garcinia for weight loss?
Ayurvedic Point of View:
The main reason for gaining weight is an imbalance of Kapha dosha & aggravation of Ama (toxins) in the body. Excessive Ama in the body slows down metabolism. That results in obesity. Obese people are lethargic in nature and not able to perform any task properly. Obesity can lead to many other diseases such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, digestive disorders, constipation, liver disorders, etc. The presence of hydroxy citric acid in Garcinia cuts down the extra fats & maintain metabolism. Hence, it is proved that the herb Garcinia is beneficial for weight loss.
Modern Point of View:
The herb Garcinia shows anti-obesity properties due to the presence of active component “hydroxy citric acid” in it. Garcinia prevents the lipogenesis process due to which excessive hunger in obese persons is reduced that ultimately leads to weight loss. Enzyme ATP citrate lyase helps in the formation of fatty acids. The presence of hydroxy citric acid inhibits fatty acid formation by the enzyme that helps in weight loss naturally.
Does Garcinia herb effective?
Garcinia herb shows insufficient evidence in health issues such as obesity, liver disorders, piles, constipation, etc.
How did herb Garcinia helps to maintain high cholesterol levels?
Ayurvedic Point of View:
High cholesterol levels occur when there is an imbalanced state of Kapha dosha & improper nutrition. Pitta dosha is also responsible for high cholesterol as it causes disturbance in metabolism & improper digestion. The fats are not processed completely that take place in blood vessels causing high cholesterol levels & ultimately clog the arteries. So to maintain this condition the herb Garcinia maintains the imbalanced state of Kapha &Pitta dosha in the body.
Modern Point of View:
Garcinia is an effective herb for maintaining the levels of high cholesterol. The presence of hydroxy citric acid in it inhibits the activity of an enzyme ATP lyase. So that the fat formation in the intestine, liver, & adipose tissue will not take place.
Different FAQs about various benefits of herb Garcinia
- Does Garcinia herb show the anti-inflammatory property?
- How much quantity of Garcinia should be consumed by an individual?
- Is Garcinia helpful in detoxification of the body?
- What are the Ayurvedic properties (Rasa, Guna, Veerya, &Vipaka) of the herb Garcinia?
- Does Garcinia show diuretic property?
What are the health benefits of Garcinia in Diabetes mellitus?
Ayurvedic Point of View:
In Ayurveda, Diabetes mellitus is known as Madhumeh. It is caused due to imbalance of Kapha dosha. The wrong eating habits, excessive intake of sweet leads to this disease. The herb Garcinia helps to balance the Kapha dosha & can manage Diabetes mellitus.
Modern Point of View:
The herb Garcinia improves peripheral insulin sensitivity & acts as insulin resistant. It maintains the high glucose levels in the blood & manages diabetes mellitus.
What is the recommended dosage of the herb Garcinia?
Garcinia Capsule: Take 1 to 2 capsules once or twice daily as recommended by the physician.
Garcinia Powder: Take 1 teaspoonful once or twice daily as recommended by the physician.
Garcinia Tablet: Take 1 to 2 tablets once or twice daily as recommended by the physician.
ANSWERS OF FAQs (Frequently asked questions):
Does Garcinia herb show the anti-inflammatory property?
Inflammation is the process that generally takes place after tissue injury or infection. The use of the herb Garcinia helps to lower down the inflammation & provide a good effect on many diseases. The anti-inflammatory property of Garcinia helps to lower down inflammation in Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
How much quantity of Garcinia should be consumed by an individual?
If a person is taking a Garcinia capsule, then the standardized extract of 500mg is sufficient once or twice as advised by the physician. The powder form of Garcinia herb can be consumed 3gm to 5gm as advised.
Does Garcinia help in detoxification of the body?
Yes, Garcinia helps in detoxification of the body. The antioxidant property of Garcinia helps to fight against oxidative stress & prevent the body from various diseases. Garcinia extract neutralizes the effect of free radicals.
What are the Ayurvedic properties (Rasa, Guna, Veerya, &Vipaka) of the herb Garcinia?
The Rasa (taste): Madhura (sweet), Amal (sour), Katu (pungent)
The Guna(quality) : Ruksha (dry), Laghu (light)
The Veerya (potency) : Ushna (hot)
The Vipaka(post-digestive effect) : Amal (sour)
Does Garcinia show diuretic property?
Yes, Garcinia can show diuretic property. It helps to remove the extra amount of water that is accumulated in the body.
Common side effects & precautions while consuming Garcinia:
The side effects that are seen are – skin irritation, liver toxicity, liver damage, headache, digestive distress. It should be avoided for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, & children.
Always consume Garcinia under the supervision of a doctor.
Garcinia Cambogia is a tropical fruit that has gained popularity as a weight-loss supplement due to its active ingredient hydroxycitric acid (HCA). It is often marketed for its potential to help with fat burning and appetite suppression. In Ayurveda, Garcinia Cambogia is sometimes used to balance the Kapha dosha, which governs weight and body composition.
Health Benefits of Garcinia Cambogia
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Weight Loss Aid
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Fat Burning: Garcinia Cambogia is believed to help with weight loss by inhibiting an enzyme called citrate lyase, which plays a role in converting carbohydrates into fat. By blocking this enzyme, it may reduce fat storage.
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Appetite Suppressant: HCA may increase serotonin levels in the brain, which can lead to reduced appetite and improved mood.
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Increased Metabolism: Some studies suggest that Garcinia Cambogia might help boost metabolism, leading to faster fat burning and increased energy expenditure.
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Improved Cholesterol Levels
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Lower LDL (bad cholesterol): Garcinia Cambogia has been shown to reduce levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, while increasing HDL (good cholesterol) levels.
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Heart Health: By improving cholesterol balance, it may promote cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
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Blood Sugar Regulation
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Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Some research suggests that Garcinia Cambogia may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity, which is essential for people with diabetes or metabolic syndrome.
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Preventing Sugar Cravings: The appetite-suppressing effects can reduce cravings for sugary foods, potentially helping those trying to avoid excessive sugar consumption.
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Anti-Inflammatory Effects
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Reducing Inflammation: Garcinia Cambogia contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation in the body, which is often linked to various chronic conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and obesity.
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Digestive Health
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Garcinia Cambogia has been traditionally used to improve digestion and enhance gut health. It may act as a mild laxative and help alleviate bloating or discomfort caused by indigestion.
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Side Effects of Garcinia Cambogia
While Garcinia Cambogia is generally considered safe for short-term use, it may have certain side effects for some people. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially for those with underlying health conditions.
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Gastrointestinal Issues
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Common side effects include nausea, digestive discomfort, cramping, and diarrhea. Some people may experience bloating or other digestive disturbances.
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Headaches
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Some users report experiencing headaches or dizziness, particularly when starting the supplement. This might be linked to the increased serotonin levels in the brain.
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Liver Damage
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There have been reports of liver toxicity or damage associated with high doses of Garcinia Cambogia, particularly in people who take it for prolonged periods. Liver-related symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain require immediate medical attention.
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Interactions with Medications
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Garcinia Cambogia may interfere with certain medications, such as diabetes medications (due to its effect on blood sugar levels) or antidepressants (due to its impact on serotonin levels). Always speak with a healthcare provider if you are on any prescription medications.
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Risk for Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women
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Garcinia Cambogia should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of safety data on its effects in these populations.
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Mood Changes
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Since Garcinia Cambogia may increase serotonin levels in the brain, some people may experience mood swings or other emotional changes, especially if they are already on medications that affect serotonin.
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How to Use Garcinia Cambogia Safely
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Dosage: The typical dosage of Garcinia Cambogia extract ranges from 500 mg to 1000 mg per day, taken about 30 minutes before meals. Follow the instructions on the product label or consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
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Consult a Doctor: If you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as liver disease, diabetes, or a history of depression, consult with your doctor before starting Garcinia Cambogia.
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Quality Matters: Make sure you are using a high-quality product from a reputable source to avoid contaminants or poor-quality ingredients.
Conclusion
Garcinia Cambogia can offer several potential health benefits, particularly for weight loss and blood sugar regulation. However, like any supplement, it comes with some side effects, especially for certain individuals. It’s important to consider these factors and consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating Garcinia Cambogia into your routine, particularly if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.